May 30, 2017 | By Julia
While 3D printing and fashion have been friendly with each other for a few years now, cross industry collaborations have generally been limited to experimental haute couture or customized artisanal designs. But that may all be about to change, thanks to the launch of a new Adidas design that’s as bold as it is functional.
Envisioned by architect-turned-designer KXIV, the new Adidas UltraBOOST Nest custom sneaker draws inspiration from the Beijing National Stadium, and features an advanced 3D printed locking system. For those new to the world famous piece of architecture, the Beijing National Stadium (perhaps better known as the “Bird’s Nest”) was used during the 2008 Olympics, and is well known for its unique, intricate structure designed by international architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron.
Drawing on the whimsical design of the Bird’s Nest, KXIV’s new UltraBOOST Nest customs sport a textured upper lycra section that weaves seamlessly into a structural lacing system. Made from abrasive-resistant polyurethane, the upper lace layer utilizes two continuous laces which wrap around the entire shoe, and are held in place by an intense baking process set at 300 degrees.
A series of 3D printed double-loop cinch locks, placed at strategic points, hold the Stadium-inspired lacing in place, together with the heel-based anchoring system. All in all, the structure is both supportive and elastic. Alongside the bubble-like form of the Adidas UltraBOOST sole, the eye-catching blue colour references the Beijing National Aquatics Center, located directly next to the Bird’s Nest in Beijing.
Though trained technically in architecture, KXIV (also known as Nathan Kiatkulpiboone) is no stranger to designer footwear. You may remember the designer’s previous efforts from the luxurious Jordan 11 “Thai Architecture” customs, released a few years back. Since then, the rapidly up-and-coming design guru has continued to branch out, experimenting with fashion, technology, and even literature.
“It is his belief that interdisciplinary skills are the catalyst for innovation and that collaboration with divergent minds enables valuable insight into design,” says a KXIV rep on the designer’s website. The new Adidas UltraBOOST Nest customs are a clear manifestation of that ethos, effectively bringing together 3D printing tech, architecture, and branded fashion.
And with the new kicks already blowing up on architecture, design, and fashion blogs across the web, there’s a clear business incentive to that interdisciplinary mentality too. No word on pricing and availability yet, but as a piece of clever branding and potentially a harbinger of footwear trends to come, the UltraBOOST Nest sneakers have already proven a huge success.
Posted in 3D Printing Application
Maybe you also like:
- T-Bone Cape motion control board launches on Indiegogo
- New extruder could lower costs of 3D printing cellular structures for drug testing
- New Ninja Printer Plate for consumer 3D printing
- mUVe3D releases improved Marlin firmware for all 3D printers
- Zecotek plans HD 3D display for 3D printers
- Add a smart LCD controller to your Robo3D printer
- Maker Kase: a handy cabinet for 3D printers
- Heated bed for ABS printing with the Printrbot Simple XL
- Next gen all metal 3D printer extruder from Micron
- Pico all-metal hotend 100% funded in 48 hours, B3 announces Stretch Goal
- Create it REAL announces first 3D printing Real Time Processor
- A larger and more powerful 3D printer extruder on Kickstarter